Ketorolac
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DRUG STATUS
Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
Essential Medicine
NO
Teratogenicity
Unlisted
Pharmaceutical Class
Cyclooxygenase Inhibitor, Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Ketorolac
Know More About This Medicine -
Click HereSummary
Ketorolac is used for short-term management of moderate to severe pain, typically post-surgery. It's not intended for long-lasting or mild pain, or for use in children.
Ketorolac works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis by blocking cyclooxygenase (an enzyme), which reduces inflammation and pain. It's similar to ibuprofen but stronger.
Ketorolac is for adults only. Most adults start with 20mg, then take 10mg every 4 to 6 hours if needed, but no more than 40mg in a day. It's best given as a shot or through an IV at first, then you might take it as a pill.
Common side effects include nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, drowsiness, and dizziness. It can also cause stomach problems like pain, gas, diarrhea, or constipation, and in rare cases, it can harm your liver or kidneys.
Ketorolac should not be taken if you're pregnant after the 7th month, have a stomach ulcer, or have had recent stomach bleeding. It can raise your risk of heart attack, stroke, and serious stomach problems. Watch for signs of liver trouble or allergic reaction and seek immediate help if you have trouble breathing, gain weight suddenly, or swell up.
Indications and Purpose
What is Ketorolac used for?
Ketorolac tablets are strong pain relievers, similar to opioid painkillers, but only for short-term use (up to 5 days) in adults with moderate to severe pain. They're only meant to continue pain relief if you've already had shots or IV medication of the same drug. They're not for children or for mild or long-lasting pain.
How does Ketorolac work?
Ketorolac inhibits prostaglandin synthesis by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX), which reduces inflammation and pain.Ketorolac is a strong pain reliever. Almost all of it sticks to proteins in your blood. It's made of two mirror-image parts, but both work the same. It doesn't affect how your liver processes other medicines. However, it can make some water pills less effective. You shouldn't take it with probenecid because that combination makes way too much ketorolac build up in your blood.
Is Ketorolac effective?
Ketorolac has been proven effective for short-term acute pain management in clinical studies, reducing the need for opioids in postoperative settings.
How does one know if Ketorolac is working?
Reduction in pain levels after administration is the primary indicator of its effectiveness.This medicine needs careful monitoring. Watch for signs of stomach bleeding (like blood in your stool). Your doctor will regularly check your blood to make sure it's working correctly. If you have liver or kidney problems, the doctor might stop the medicine if your liver tests get worse. Always take the smallest amount needed, and only for as long as necessary.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Ketorolac?
This medicine (ketorolac tromethamine) is for adults only. Most adults take 20mg to start, then 10mg every 4 to 6 hours if needed, but no more than 40mg total in a day. Older adults, people with kidney problems, or those weighing less than 50 kg should start with 10mg and take 10mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed, again, not exceeding 40mg total daily. It's not for children.
How do I take Ketorolac?
Ketorolac should be taken orally, typically with food to minimize gastrointestinal irritation. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or shorten the interval between doses (minimum 4-6 hours).
For how long do I take Ketorolac?
Ketorolac is a strong pain reliever. For grown-ups, whether you take it as a pill or injection, you shouldn't use it for more than 5 days total. It's not safe for children.
How long does it take for Ketorolac to start working?
Peak analgesic effect occurs within 2-3 hours after oral administration.
How should I store Ketorolac?
Keep the container tightly closed, away from light and dampness. It needs to be stored where kids can't get to it, at a room temperature between 68° and 77°F (a little warmer or cooler is okay).
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Ketorolac?
This medicine is a strong pain reliever, but it's only for short-term use (5 days max) in adults. Don't take it if you're pregnant (after the 7th month), have a stomach ulcer, or have recently had stomach bleeding. It can raise your risk of heart attack, stroke, and serious stomach problems. Watch for signs of liver trouble (feeling sick, tired, yellow skin) or allergic reaction (rash, fever). If you have trouble breathing, gain weight suddenly, or swell up, get help right away.
Can I take Ketorolac with other prescription drugs?
If you're taking water pills (like thiazide or loop diuretics) and pain relievers (NSAIDs, including Toradol), your water pills might not work as well. NSAIDs can also affect blood pressure, especially if you already have high blood pressure. It's very important to talk to your doctor before starting any new medicines, especially if you’re already on other medications for high blood pressure.
Can I take Ketorolac with vitamins or supplements?
No specific information on vitamins or supplements is provided. Consult a healthcare provider for advice on interactions.
Can Ketorolac be taken safely while pregnant?
NSAIDs like ketorolac can harm a baby during pregnancy, especially after 30 weeks. They may cause the baby's blood vessel (ductus arteriosus) to close too early. Even between 20 and 30 weeks, these medicines should be used very carefully and only for a short time because they've been linked to kidney problems for the baby. After 30 weeks, it's best to avoid them completely.
Can Ketorolac be taken safely while breastfeeding?
A small amount of the pain medicine ketorolac can pass into breast milk. In a study, it wasn't even found in most mothers' milk. Even when it was present, the amount a baby would get was very, very small—much less than the mother's dose. However, it's still best to talk to your baby's doctor if you have any concerns.
Is Ketorolac safe for the elderly?
Ketorolac is a pain reliever, but older people (65 and up) need to be very careful with it. Their bodies get rid of it more slowly, making them more likely to have side effects like stomach problems. Doctors should give them lower doses and watch them closely to prevent serious issues. Older adults are at higher risk of bad stomach problems from this medicine.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Ketorolac?
Exercise is not contraindicated, but avoid strenuous activity if experiencing side effects like dizziness or drowsiness.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Ketorolac?
Alcohol increases the risk of GI bleeding and should be avoided during treatment.
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